Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offence that can result in devastating consequences for yourself and others on the road. In addition to putting lives at risk, a drunk or drug-driving offence can have significant legal consequences, including fines, licence suspension or cancellation, and even imprisonment. This blog will explore the legal consequences of drunk and drug driving offences and the requirements, such as a safe driving program for getting your license back.
Legal Consequences of Drink Driving Offences
Drink driving is one of Australia’s most common driving offences. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers varies depending on the state but is generally 0.05% or lower. If caught driving over the limit, you may face the following legal consequences:
- Fines: The first penalty for drunk driving offences is typically a fine. The amount of the fine can vary depending on the severity of the offence, your blood alcohol concentration, and your driving record.
- Licence Suspension: If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit, your licence may be suspended. The length of the suspension can vary depending on the state and the severity of the offence.
- Criminal Record: In some cases, drunk driving offences can result in a criminal record. This can have significant consequences for your future, including difficulties finding employment or obtaining a visa for travel.
- Imprisonment: Imprisonment may be a possible penalty for more serious drunk driving offences, such as repeat offences or causing injury or death while driving under the influence.
Legal Consequences of Drug Driving Offences
Driving under the influence of drugs, including prescription medication, is also a serious offence in Australia. The legal consequences of drug driving offences include:
- Fines: Similar to drunk driving offences, drug driving offences can result in fines. The amount of the fine can vary depending on the severity of the offence, the type of drug involved, and your driving record.
- Licence Suspension: If you are caught driving under the influence of drugs, your licence may be suspended for a period of time. The length of the suspension can vary depending on the state and the severity of the offence.
- Criminal Record: Drug driving offences can also result in a criminal record, significantly affecting your future.
- Imprisonment: Imprisonment may be a possible penalty for more serious drug driving offences, such as causing injury or death while driving under the influence.
Requirements for Getting Your Licence Back
You must complete a behaviour change program before getting your licence back if you have been charged with a drunk or drug driving offence. The behaviour change program is designed to help you understand the risks and consequences of drunk and drug driving and to help you develop safer driving habits.
In addition to completing the behaviour change program, you may also need to pay fines and fees and may be required to attend court or other legal proceedings. The length of time that your licence is suspended will depend on the severity of the offence and the state in which you were charged.
It’s important to note that even after completing the behaviour change or safe driving program and paying any required fines or fees, you may still need an alcohol interlock device installed in your vehicle. An alcohol interlock is a breath-testing device installed in your vehicle and requires you to pass a breath test before starting the car.
In conclusion, drunk and drug driving offences can have significant legal consequences, including fines, licence suspension, and even imprisonment. If you have been charged with a drunk or drug driving offence, it’s important to understand the requirements for getting your licence back, including completing a behaviour change program and potentially installing an alcohol interlock device in your vehicle. By understanding the legal consequences of drunk and drug driving offences and taking responsibility for your actions, you can work towards becoming a safer and more responsible driver.
